ירמיהו, פרק ל״ט, פסוק ט״ו

Jeremiah receives a divine message while still detained in prison [מצודת ציון]. This revelation occurs during a period of immense distress amidst the destruction of Jerusalem, shortly after Ebed-melech the Ethiopian rescues the prophet from the pit. The timing of God speaking at this exact moment reveals a profound principle: God never withholds a person's rightful reward [אברבנאל].

The purpose of this prophecy is to deliver a promise of salvation directly to Ebed-melech. God informs him that the destruction of the city is inevitable, and he will witness the sword, famine, plague, and the invading Chaldean army with his own eyes. Despite this terrifying reality, Ebed-melech receives a guarantee of personal safety. He will not be handed over to the enemy forces he fears, nor will he die in battle or be taken away as a captive. Instead, he will escape with his life intact.

This complete protection is granted because of his deep trust in God. When Ebed-melech took action to save Jeremiah from certain death, he did not let fear of the officials stop him. Rather, he relied completely on God, trusting that He would shield him from both the wrath of the officials and the invading enemy army [אברבנאל].